What is Larimar? Where Does Larimar Come From?
Larimar is a natural gemstone variety of massive Pectolite from the Dominican Republic, known for its gentle blue and white hues. Often found growing in nodules with radial growth patterns, when polished this natural gem is reminiscent of ocean waves. Other names for Larimar stone include: Blue Pectolite, Dolphin Stone, Atlantis Stone, and Stefilia's Stone. The gem is often turned into natural stone cabochons and made into Larimar jewelry, although freeform statement pieces are also very popular. Raw Larimar, as well as Larimar tumbled stones, make wonderful gifts for collectors who prize this variety of Pectolite for its natural blue color.
Larimar Meaning and Metaphysical Properties
It is no surprise that Larimar is a Water Element stone associated with the Higher Chakras (Throat Chakra, Third Eye Chakra, and Crown Chakra), since it has a reputation as a phenomenal crystal for spiritual healing, emotional balance, and cultivating wisdom. Larimar stone is often used in meditation for stress relief, centering oneself, and seeking guidance from the divine. The metaphysical properties and meaning of Larimar make it a gem for mental clarity, open communication, and overcoming hardships through flexibility. Work with Larimar when you want to keep your emotions and thoughts on an even keel, and when you want to respond to life's ups and downs from a place of healing.
Where to Buy Larimar
Since Larimar Pectolite only comes from the Dominican Republic, it's important to remember that there are finite quantities of this natural gemstone in the world. When searching for natural Larimar stone, inclusions of matrix and variations in the coloring are good indications that the gem is from Mother Earth. Natural Larimar pieces often retain a little texture, even after polishing, due to the growth structure of the Pectolite. High quality pieces of Larimar stone can feature an ocean pattern, but this patterning should not be too regular or predictable across the entire gemstone, especially if the specimen is large.
All this said, you may be asking, "Where can I buy a Larimar stone?" At Crystal Gemstone Shop, we're careful to test our gemstones so that we can identify and label them accurately, because we want to be your favorite crystal store. In addition, we responsibly source all of our items, working only with mines and vendors we've built relationships with over many years. When you shop for Larimar with us, whether you're choosing tumbled stones, rough gemstones, crystal hearts, or Larimar jewelry, we want you to experience our passion for natural stones.
How to Cleanse Larimar
When physically cleaning your Larimar, take care to avoid harsh cleansers, such as chlorine, or abrasive materials, like hard bristle brushes, as these can damage your gemstone. Larimar is a 4.5 - 5 on the Mohs hardness scale, but because of its growth structure it's not advised to submerge the gem long-term in liquids, since this may eventually contribute to cracking. Larimar is also a photo-sensitive stone, meaning that longterm exposure to direct sunlight may cause your stone to discolor. When spiritually cleansing and charging Larimar, we always advise the use of a Selenite crystal or exposure to Full Moonlight, since these methods won't cause harm to the stone. Another safe way to spiritually cleanse Larimar is Smoke Cleansing with Sage, Palo Santo, Incense, or dried herbs.